Carbamazepine

Dosage Forms Available

• Carbamazepine is available for use via the oral route (tablet, a chewable tablet, an extended-release (long-acting) tablet, an extended-release capsule, and as a suspension (liquid)).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adults and children above 5 years of age.

Contraindications

• Carbamazepine is contraindicated in patients with known allergies to carbamazepine and who have a history of previous bone marrow depression.

Other Medications To Avoid With This Medicine

• It is advisable to avoid concurrent use of antipsychotics (aripiprazole, quetiapine), anxiolytics (alprazolam), antidepressants (amitriptyline, duloxetine, sertraline, fluoxetine), antibiotics (erythromycin), analgesics (codeine, oxycodone, acetaminophen, tramadol), anticonvulsants (gabapentin, lamotrigine, pregabalin, phenytoin, topiramate), thyroid hormones (levothyroxine), antipsychotic agents (lithium), sedatives (melatonin), anticoagulants (warfarin), antihistamines (diphenhydramine), and vitamins (cholecalciferol) alongside Carbamazepine. Prior consultation with your healthcare provider is essential before considering any prescription or over-the-counter medications.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdose of this medicine may cause symptoms like unconsciousness, seizures, muscle twitching, abnormal movements, unsteadiness, drowsiness, irregular or slowed breathing, vision changes, and difficulty urinating. If you observe these symptoms, inform your doctor and follow the advice accordingly.
• If you forget to take this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. But avoid repeating the dose.

Use In Driving And Operating Machinery

• This medicine may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid driving if you feel dizzy after taking this medicine.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Carbamazepine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Special Dietary & Lifestyle Recommendation

• Avoid alcohol when you are taking Carbamazepine.
• People dealing with epilepsy are advised to contemplate lifestyle adjustments, including dietary modifications such as adopting a ketogenic diet, which is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, and maintaining a regular sleep pattern along with Carbamazepine.
• Avoid grapefruit juice when taking Carbamazepine, as it can affect the working of Carbamazepine.